If you don't want to read blog posts and want to get more information about the project in a creative way, make sure to watch our YouTube video here:
Hey Hackster community!
I'm excited to share a project that truly embodies the maker spirit: designing and fabricating a custom 3D printed PC case tailored specifically to my needs. This wasn't just about building a computer; it was about solving a unique problem that off-the-shelf solutions simply couldn't address.
As a long-time Mac user, my MacBook excels at productivity, 3D modeling, coding, and YouTube management, offering the minimalism, portability, and efficiency I value. However, it falls short for gaming, advanced 3D software, and connecting niche hardware. This led me down the path of needing a dedicated Windows machine.
The Case Conundrum: Why Off-the-Shelf Wasn't an Option
My biggest hurdle in this PC building journey was the case itself. Normally, you're forced to find a compatible case that fits your components before considering design. I already had specific parts in my workshop, and I couldn't fathom investing in a case that didn't perfectly house them or align with my aesthetic preferences. It became clear: I couldn't find an existing case that would perfectly fit every single one of my existing parts.
The solution? To design and 3D print my own PC case. This approach offered a "win-win-win": we get the exact design we want, ensure a perfect fit for all my components, and save a good amount of money by reusing parts and avoiding overpriced cases.
Precision with 3D Scanning: Enter the Creality Otter Lite
The initial component placement was a challenge, aiming for minimal spacing to create a dense form factor. This proved incredibly time-consuming until a game-changing tool arrived: the Creality Otter Lite scanner. Our sponsor Creality provided this scanner, and it proved indispensable.
Design, Fabrication, and the "Gold Mine" Learning
With precise digital models, I began 3D modeling the case. The structure was designed for minimal spacing. For aesthetic inspiration, I drew ideas from cases like the famous Fractal MOOD case, particularly its unusual fabric-wrapped exterior. While some might question thermal performance, clever design tricks ensure it performs better than expected.
The case's size required cutting the parts into many pieces, but the big volume of the Creality K2 Plus helped print some larger sections without further splitting, easing assembly. We printed around 6 kgs of filament for this project.
For the external covers, instead of 3D printing, I opted for laser cutting acrylic sheets using the Creality Falcon 2 pro, a more pocket-friendly solution.
The final PC build is a one-of-a-kind solution tailored exactly to my unique problems and preferences. A significant learning experience for me was wrapping 3D printed projects with fabric. This method was like finding a "gold mine"; it truly transforms the look of your 3D prints to another level, and I'm eager to apply this technique to many future projects.
Your Turn to Build!
This project was a fantastic exploration into custom fabrication, proving that with modern tools like 3D scanners and printers, you can truly create solutions that are impossible to buy.
I'm making the full design files and the entire Onshape project available for my Patreons so they can build their own custom case!
If you have any suggestions for future upgrades or modifications, please share them in the comments below—I might even make a follow-up video based on your ideas!
Patreon post link that includes Onshape project link: https://www.patreon.com/posts/unlock-ultimate-138179085
Happy making!
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